Andrea, I hear what you are saying. I always wanted to hand quilt. By the time I was ready to, I had arthritis in the base of my thumbs. Holding the needle with my thumb and first finger in the pincher mode kills my hand. How I admire those who are able to hand quilt.
However, living a little more in the fast lanes these days machine quilting is important to many. I have learned that there is an art to machine quilting also. Bless you for your concern and I hope more will take on handquilting. It seems there are many on this board who love handquilting. I love seeing your quilts and am always amazed what you do. :) :) :)